Ep 208. Health Care; 'Devil's Bargain'

The Charlie Rose show's 25th season, episode 208 titled "Health Care: Devil's Bargain" offers a deep dive into the complex and often fraught healthcare industry in the United States. The episode brings together experts from various disciplines, including healthcare policy, medicine, and journalism, to discuss the current state of healthcare and what it means for Americans.

The experts examine the challenges that healthcare providers and policymakers face in attempting to balance the needs of patients with the realities of the broader healthcare system. They examine the intricacies of healthcare economics, the role of pharmaceuticals and insurance companies in shaping the industry, and the ways in which healthcare regulations and policies can affect patient outcomes.

One of the key topics discussed during the episode is the recent healthcare legislation passed by Congress, including the Affordable Care Act and the Republican-led efforts to repeal and replace it. The guests explore the successes and shortcomings of these policies, and how they have impacted patients, providers, and the healthcare industry as a whole.

Another important theme of the episode is the role of pharmaceutical companies in shaping healthcare policy and practice. The experts discuss the high cost of prescription drugs, the challenges of balancing the need for innovation with concerns about affordability and accessibility, and the ways in which drug companies have influenced policy through lobbying and marketing efforts.

Throughout the episode, host Charlie Rose facilitates a lively and engaging discussion among the guests, drawing out their insights and anecdotes to shed light on the complex issues and debates within the healthcare industry. The guests offer a range of perspectives, from academic research and medical practice to journalistic investigation and patient advocacy.

Ultimately, the episode offers audiences a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the challenges and opportunities facing the healthcare industry in the United States today. From the intricacies of healthcare economics and policy to the experiences of patients and providers on the front lines of care, "Health Care: Devil's Bargain" provides a comprehensive and illuminating look at one of the most critical issues facing American society.